US Interceptor Usage in Iran Conflict Exceeds Israel's by Double
US used double amount of interceptors as Israel during Iran war, officials say - report
Image: Jpost
During the recent conflict with Iran, the United States utilized twice as many missile interceptors as Israel, deploying approximately 200 Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) interceptors and over 100 naval interceptors. In contrast, Israel used fewer than 100 Arrow 3 and around 90 David Sling interceptors, highlighting concerns over the depletion of US military stockpiles amid ongoing regional threats.
- 01The US deployed around 200 THAAD interceptors, representing about half of its total THAAD inventory.
- 02Israel's missile defense involved fewer than 100 Arrow 3 missiles and about 90 David Sling interceptors.
- 03Concerns have been raised by US allies, including Japan and South Korea, regarding the depletion of US interceptor stockpiles.
- 04The Pentagon's chief spokesman noted that both nations effectively shared the defensive burden during Operation Epic Fury.
- 05A US Congress study indicated that the current production rates of interceptors are insufficient to replenish stockpiles for prolonged conflicts.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
According to a report by The Washington Post, the United States deployed approximately 200 Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) interceptors against Iranian missiles targeting Israel, which is double the number used by Israel during the conflict. The US also utilized over 100 naval interceptors, including Standard Missile-3 and Standard Missile-6, while Israel relied on fewer than 100 Arrow 3 missiles and around 90 David Sling interceptors. The Pentagon emphasized that both nations shared the defensive responsibilities equitably during Operation Epic Fury, showcasing their advanced air and missile defense capabilities. However, concerns have emerged regarding the depletion of US interceptor stockpiles, particularly from allies like Japan and South Korea, who rely on US support against threats from China and North Korea. A recent study from the US Congress highlighted that the current production rates are inadequate to sustain air defenses for allied nations in prolonged conflicts, raising alarms about the future availability of interceptors as tensions persist in the region.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
The depletion of US interceptor stockpiles could affect the military readiness of US allies in the region, particularly Japan and South Korea, who depend on US defense capabilities against regional threats.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
Do you think the US should increase interceptor production to support allies?
Connecting to poll...
Read the original article
Visit the source for the complete story.